UW-Stout’s Office of International Education is hosting a faculty-led study abroad opportunity to Ghana, in West Africa, for 14 days this winter to learn about the country’s peoples, cultures and societies.
History and Culture of Ghana is a general education course and will run during WinTerm 2025 from Jan. 6-25, with travel dates of Jan. 8-22. It is open to all majors.
The deadline to apply is Monday, Sept. 23.
Ghana has a rich history that spans back to the year 300 AD. The Ghanaian people have produced empires and civilizations that were often at the epicenter of many historical events. Ghana’s location and natural resources made it a significant site for the Atlantic slave trade and European colonization. The nation of Ghana would later become a pillar and leader in the Pan-Africanism and decolonization movements in continental Africa. It is an important place to visit for people in the African diaspora worldwide seeking to better understand their roots.
Cultural and historical tours will be given by a knowledgeable local guide. The class will visit the cities of Accra, Kumasi, the Cape Coast, Akosombo and Liati Wote.
Students will learn about the arts, traditional religion, music, storytelling and dance. They will visit museums related to chieftaincy, castles and fortresses important in the Atlantic slave trade, colonial-era neighborhoods in Accra, climb Mount Afadjato and swim at Tagbo Falls. They will also learn about organizations that support women, grow local economies and address environmental issues.
Program leaders are social science Professor Tina Lee and Fred Brown, staff adviser to the Black Student Union on campus. Lee and Brown will host a pre-departure orientation for students in the class.
Lee hopes that students gain a greater understanding of West Africa, its people and its rich history. “We hope this trip can help undo any stereotypes,” she said. “For our students of color, we hope the journey provides an opportunity for them to learn more about their roots and powerfully connect with their history. It should be an amazing 14 days for everyone.”
This is the final course in the heritage-based, faculty-led program series. Other courses included Exploring International Business in Latin America in winter 2023 and Hmong and Other Minorities in Thailand . The initial program series was supported through a World Learning and U.S. Department of State IDEAS Grant.
Watch a 5-minute video to learn more. Study abroad opportunities are a part of Stout Core, foundational education classes at Wisconsin’s Polytechnic University.
Email UW-Stout Study Abroad with any questions.
